Wizardology: The Book of the Secrets of Merlin (Ologies) (Hardcover)

by Master Merlin (Author), Dugald A. Steer (Editor), Dugald Steer (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist
Gr. 5--8. "A WARNING: Wizardology is not a subject to be pottered with. Heed the example of Dr. Faustus . . ." So opens this timely, elaborately packaged companion to Dragonology (2003). Students of the magical arts courageous enough to read on will find eye-opening disquisitions on wizardly garb and wands, types of spells, the care and feeding of familiars, uses for gryphon earwax and other substances, plus picture galleries of magical beasts and renowned wizards. In addition, there are pull tabs with "magical" effects, attached booklets, a phoenix's feather, a scrap of Fairy Flag, and more--all sandwiched between "crystal" gems embedded in the front and rear covers. Four illustrators contribute elaborately detailed creatures, symbols, and views of a wizard's workshop to this surprisingly sturdy production. Be bold. John Peters
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Product Description
A dazzling compendium of all things magical - and wise teachings from Master Merlin for aspiring wizard apprentices!

Originally discovered in 1588, this remarkable text by history's most respected wizard is revealed to the world for the first time. Lavishly illustrated, WIZARDOLOGY is intricately designed and includes a series of hidden symbols that spell out a secret message when the code is deciphered.

Special features of WIZARDOLOGY include: * a glittering crystal ball-like jewel on the front cover * a world map of wizards' locations around the world * a "fairy flag" with one wish remaining * a Phoenix feather to aid in spelling flying charms * booklets explaining the proper use of spells, familiars, and potions * a removeable dragon pendant to dowse for mythical beasts * a pack of 8 removeable fortunetelling cards * a 48-page book of divination

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Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Candlewick (September 13, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0763628956
• ISBN-13: 978-0763628956
• Product Dimensions: 11.9 x 10.2 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars See all reviews (60 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #28,032 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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  #3 in	Books > Children's Books > Series > Fantasy & Adventure > Dragonology, Wizardology & Egyptology
  #4 in	Books > Children's Books > Science, Nature & How It Works > Mystery & Wonders
  #5 in	Books > Children's Books > History & Historical Fiction > Fiction > Exploration & Discoveries

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

24 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing! Fantastic!, September 26, 2005

By	J. R. "lovingjeremyrenner" (Federal Way, WA USA) - See all my reviews

I am a 24 y/o woman but I enjoy reading about mythology, magic and the like. I saw this book at Borders and I just had to pick it up. I don't know what the cover is made from, but the material is soft and screams for you to touch it. Inside the book, I was amazed at how well crafted it is. The thought behind it was genious.

It is portrayed in a manner that the book was created by Merlin from magic, and passed on to the reader, so that the reader may carry on where Merlin left off. All throughout the pages are little flaps and openings, so it is completely interactive. The artwork is amazing and the colors are well thought out. The pages look like old parchment, many drawings are penciled.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Adults will find it enchanting and fun. Children will be able to let their imaginations run wild. I am a Christian, but I gave this to my own children. I helped them to understand the difference between fiction and fantasy, so they can enjoy this book fully without being confused.

I recommend this book! Go to the library and peek it over if you have doubts. You will not be disappointed. I also recommend the other 2 book in the "Ologies" series. Dragnology and Egyptology. Both are written the same way.

21 of 22 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars another brilliant work from candlewick and templar, September 14, 2005

A Kid's Review

From the makers of Dragonology,Egyptology and Dragonology Handbook comes another excellent book from candlewick press and templar publishing. This book claims to be written by the great wizard himself Merlin Ambrosius. It was written about 500 years ago (or claims to be). It is in a category that the writers at candlewick have created what I call realistic fiction. What the book is is fictional information created into a nonfictional form. It sort of resembles a reference book but there is something different about it that most will enjoy. It is loaded with little flaps and books to open. Some are miniature booklets about spells,familiars(wizards animal companion), and potion ingredients. Some are samples of material like fairy flag or phoenix feather. And then there is the miscellaneous items like a pack of fortunetelling cards,a mini-book written by a harpier(a wizards name for an owl) and much more. I guarantee you if you are a fan of the other ology books or just want to believe in the unbelievable buy this book right now.

20 of 22 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely adorable!, July 12, 2006

By	EquesNiger (Prague, Czech Republic) - See all my reviews

One of the nicest things about the Harry Potter phenomenon is the opening of minds to the hidden worlds of the imagination, and a rekindling of young peoples' interests in areas of mythology and classic literature. This gorgeously produced work is a result of that trend. Supposedly the result of a communication from master wizard Merlin through the pages of the book made from the tree in which he was imprisoned, this text outlines the activities of fictional and historical magicians over the ages. The book itself is an activity, with hidden compartments and moving parts, all of which will increase its fascination factor for young hearts and minds. While some of the material presented inside does have its roots in the genuine esoteric tradition, this book doesn't pander new age philosophy, nor does it encourage young folks to take up cloak and staff. It's intent is to stimulate the imagination, and it does this remarkably well.